1999 s80 t6 stuck in limp home mode help please

[zacharyzoosh]

I have the same issue with a Volvo S80, also 1999. I just got it cheap from a guy instead of letting him junk it.

DOES ANYONE HAVE A SOLID SOLUTION FOR THIS? Without being dependent upon a Volvo dealership?

The car seems to run fine beside the fact that its always in the limp mode 3rd gear. Getting started from a stop is like being in a bad WINTER MODE (ya dig?)
And Reverse is normal.

I called a dealer and picked the brain of a service tech. He suggested the speed sensor is bad in the ABS control unit. He also mentioned problems with the throttle.
I'd like a solid tip on this.
Anyone?

Otherwise, I've replaced tranny fluid and filter just to see what would happen. The transmission hums smoother and that is all.

These S80s seem so touchy when the mileage starts stacking up. Otherwise amazing cars.

This one has 176k if that helps anyone help me here.

There isn't any resolution on this post and it seems we need one. Please HELP... if not by anyone on here, when I figure it out I'll be sure to post about it! CHEERS~

[boosted5cyl]

There's a plethora of reasons as to why a car goes into limp mode. You aren't going to find a single catch-all fix. There is no "solid solution", it all depends on exactly what is causing you car to go into limp mode. Most common cause is issues with the ETM. Transmission issues as well of course, but usually they are accompanied with a "Transmission Service Urgent" or similar message in the message center.

You need to start by pulling the OBD codes if any and then going and pulling the volvo codes with VIDA and a suitable scan tool. Anything less that that is probably going to frustrate you.

Knowing what i know now about these early P2 cars, I would never buy a '99 with issues for any amount of money. Even if it was free I'd have to think hard about it, I'm serious. It's Volvo's first attempt at a CANBUS vehicle and to say its precarious would be an understatement.

I'd suggest you start a new thread for your limp home mode issue...